Obama Praised as ‘Boss’ at Shonda Rhimes/Kerry Washington Fundraiser

*About 450 supporters of President Barack Obama gathered at the Hancock Park home of Shonda Rhimes Wednesday for a Democratic fundraiser hosted by the creator of “Scandal” and its star Kerry Washington.
According to White House pool reports, the president gave his traditional fundraising remarks, but added a quip about the ABC drama that follows a D.C. fixer and her affair with the President of the United States.
“No offense — ‘Scandal’ is a great show,” Obama said, “but it’s not something that we necessarily want to be living out day in, day out.”
Earlier, Washington introduced Rhimes as “my boss,” then the prolific producer said of the president, “He’s been doing his job like a boss.” Obama later complimented Washington, saying “there were few people who worked harder” on his campaign than she did.
Rhimes also was a big supporter of both of his presidential bids as a donor and a volunteer – even pitching in at a campaign phone bank. Singer Janelle Monae was also there, and the president joked about her having a video of him trying to keep up with Usher on the dance floor.”
Now, this is top secret,” he said of the video. “She has promised that this will never be released. But she can blackmail me at any time.” He joked later, “I did not drop in splits, but I did bust a move.”
Pool reports say the commander in chief arrived at Rhimes’ Spanish-style Hancock Park home a little after 5PM. With tickets ranging from $1,000 to $32,400, the event was held in the backyard, which was adorned with white umbrellas and U.S. and California flags.
Among the guests were various members of the “Scandal” cast such as Tony Goldwyn. HBO’s Michael Lombardo, who held an event recently at his home with Michelle Obama, and ABC’s Paul Lee were also in attendance.